Mycoplasma Infection

Mycoplasma are the smallest free-living prokaryotes, lacking cell walls, 0.3-0.5 µm, highly pleomorphic (spherical/rod/filamentous/branching). Of 16 human species, 5 are pathogenic: M. pneumoniae, Ureaplasma urealyticum, M. hominis, M. genitalium, M. fermentans. M. pneumoniae causes respiratory infection/pneumonia; U. urealyticum and M. hominis cause genitourinary infection. Mycoplasmal pneumonia (primary atypical pneumonia) occurs year-round, more in winter, with small outbreaks; it is common in preschool children/young adults, transmitted by droplets, with 2-3 week incubation; prognosis is good with few complications. Genital mycoplasma infection is a recently recognized STD: adults by sexual contact, neonates by maternal genital passage—causing urethritis/cervicitis, neonatal conjunctivitis/pneumonia.

Common Symptoms

Urinary frequency; lower back soreness; distending pain; urgency

Causes and Pathogenesis

Mycoplasma infection is sexually transmitted; rates rise with promiscuity, multiple partners, and gonorrhea. Adults (especially women) are infected sexually; neonates acquire it during birth.

Treatment

Drug therapy, supportive therapy

Preventive Measures

(1) Exercise regularly; fresh air; sunlight/air/water baths. (2) Hygiene; avoid crowded poorly ventilated places; avoid contact with patients; no passive smoking. (3) Some Chinese/Western medicines boost immunity under physician guidance. (4) Vaccines (attenuated) exist but give only ~50% protection.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Infectious Diseases department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.